São Paulo and Corinthians played out a 0-0 draw at Vila Belmiro on Wednesday, with the hosts unable to make their late numerical advantage count. Corinthians finished the match with 10 players after Yuri Alberto was sent off in the 36th minute of the second half.

The result leaves Corinthians 17th in the Brazilian Championship with 37 points from 34 games, still in the relegation zone. São Paulo are 10th on 44 points, 10 behind fifth-placed Athletico, currently in a qualifying position for the preliminary round of the Copa Libertadores. São Paulo could still reach the competition if the national cup produces a place for a seventh or eighth league finisher.

The teams struggled with an uneven pitch affected by rain, but the first half offered chances at both ends. Corinthians had 13 shots to São Paulo’s five, and Yuri Alberto came closest for the visitors after running through from midfield, only to shoot straight at goalkeeper Rafael. The move began with a pass from Rodrigo Garro, who left the field in tears after feeling an injury. He is due to be assessed by the club’s medical staff on Thursday.

São Paulo created more after the break, with chances for Calleri, Luciano and Pedro Lima. Pedro Lima’s effort looked destined for an empty net after he rounded goalkeeper Hugo, but Corinthians defender Angileri raced back to clear the ball near the goal line.

Yuri Alberto was initially shown a yellow card for a hard challenge on Ferreirinha, but referee Raphael Klaus upgraded the decision to a straight red after reviewing the incident on video. Corinthians then focused on protecting the draw, and São Paulo could not take advantage of having an extra player.

Angileri said the point mattered in Corinthians’ fight against relegation, particularly after the late dismissal. Rafael, meanwhile, said São Paulo were frustrated not to win after creating chances and playing with a numerical advantage.

São Paulo’s next opponents are Fluminense, Botafogo, Remo and Athletico. Corinthians are scheduled to face Botafogo, Atlético-MG, Grêmio and Remo.

Sources: Folha Esporte.